Zesty Cuban Marinated Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner with these Zesty Cuban Marinated Pork Chops, inspired by the robust flavors of traditional Cuban cuisine. This recipe captures the essence of a classic Cuban pork roast, tailored for smaller gatherings without sacrificing taste. Infused with fresh lime juice, aromatic garlic, and warm cumin, these pork chops are juicy and delightful, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Marinated to perfection, they embody a balance of bright citrus and savory spices that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Havana. Pair these chops with my Almost Fried Plantains (#134349) for a satisfying and healthy dining experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean boneless pork chops
2 (5 ounce each, trimmed)
lime juice
2 (freshly squeezed)
ground cumin
1/2 (teaspoon)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
onion powder
1/4 (teaspoon)
fresh ground pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
olive oil
1/2 (teaspoon (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork chops to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
2
Using a sharp knife, create shallow cross-hatch marks on both sides of the chops to allow the marinade to penetrate more deeply and enhance the flavor.
3
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, ground cumin, crushed garlic, onion powder, fresh ground pepper, and olive oil until well combined.
4
Transfer the marinade into a resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container, and add the prepared pork chops. Seal or cover and ensure the chops are well coated in the marinade.
5
Refrigerate the pork chops for at least one hour, but ideally for 6-8 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating overnight as the citrus can start to 'cook' the meat.
6
When ready to cook, preheat your grill or broiler to 500°F (260°C).
7
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
8
Grill or broil the chops for about 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Cuban Marinated Pork Chops?
They are a flavorful pork dish inspired by traditional Cuban cuisine, featuring fresh lime juice, garlic, and cumin.
What cut of pork is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for lean boneless pork chops, specifically 5 ounces each.
How many pork chops does this recipe make?
The ingredient list specifies two 5-ounce lean boneless pork chops.
What ingredients are in the Cuban marinade?
The marinade consists of fresh lime juice, ground cumin, crushed garlic, onion powder, fresh ground pepper, and optional olive oil.
How should I prepare the pork chops before marinating?
Trim any excess fat and create shallow cross-hatch marks on both sides of the chops to help the marinade penetrate.
Why are cross-hatch marks used on the meat?
Creating these marks allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the overall flavor.
How long should the pork chops marinate?
The chops should marinate for at least one hour, though 6-8 hours is ideal for the best flavor.
Can I marinate the pork chops overnight?
No, you should avoid marinating overnight because the high acidity of the lime juice can start to 'cook' or change the texture of the meat.
What is the required cooking temperature for the grill or broiler?
The grill or broiler should be preheated to 500°F (260°C).
How long do the pork chops need to cook?
They should be cooked for about 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time.
What internal temperature should the pork reach?
The pork chops are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Why is it important to let the meat rest after cooking?
Resting the meat for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork remains juicy when served.
Is olive oil a mandatory ingredient?
No, the olive oil is listed as optional for the marinade.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
While you can, fresh lime juice is recommended for the best citrus flavor.
What is a good side dish to pair with these pork chops?
The recipe suggests pairing these chops with Almost Fried Plantains (#134349).
Is this recipe suitable for a healthy diet?
Yes, it uses lean pork and fresh ingredients, and is tagged as a healthy eating recipe.
What type of container should I use for marinating?
Use a resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container to ensure the citrus does not react with the material.
How do I ensure the pork chops cook evenly?
Trimming excess fat and turning the chops halfway through the cooking process helps ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy meal' and involves simple whisking and grilling steps.
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the target internal temperature.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves that have been crushed.
Does the recipe require a specific type of cumin?
It specifies ground cumin, which is standard for most Cuban spice blends.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
No, it is 'zesty' and aromatic due to the lime and cumin, but it does not contain high-heat chili peppers.
What if I don't have a grill?
The recipe provides instructions for using a broiler as an alternative to grilling.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this Cuban-style marinade works well with chicken or even steak.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (pork, lime, spices, oil), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How do I avoid dry pork chops?
Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to stop at 145°F and letting them rest.
What should I do with the leftover marinade?
The recipe instructs to allow excess marinade to drip off and discard it; do not reuse marinade that has touched raw meat unless boiled.
How much onion powder is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder.
Can I double this recipe for more people?
Yes, you can easily double the marinade and meat quantities to accommodate more guests.